Disposable speculum having lateral stabilizing mechanism

ABSTRACT

A speculum includes upper and lower members and a linear support member. The upper member includes an upper blade. The lower member includes a lower blade and a handle portion. The lower blade includes a support structure at a proximal end thereof which extends vertically on the right or left side of the lower blade, and a handle portion extending downwardly from the lower blade and defining a vertical track. The linear support member has a proximal end pivotally connected to the upper blade, a distal end, and an elongated body between the proximal and distal ends. The elongated body slidably engages the vertical track of the handle portion. The linear support member is formed with a hidden slot which slidably receives the support structure of the lower blade.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/387,038 that was filed on Sep. 28, 2010. The entire content of this provisional application is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to speculums, and more particularly to disposable vaginal speculums having lateral support and operating mechanisms.

BACKGROUND

A speculum is a medical instrument for dilating the opening of a body cavity for medical examination. A vaginal speculum commonly used during a gynecological examination or a surgical procedure is introduced into a patient's vagina to separate the vaginal walls, thus allowing the internal genital organs to be examined. Metal, autoclavable specula are conventionally used for gynecological examination and treatment. These units, with exposed joints, sharp edges, and cold metal are universally disliked by patients. The hinged joints and blade edges often pinch, scrape, or otherwise traumatize the supporting tissues in the area being examined. The conventional metallic specula blades are typically opaque. Therefore, the only area available for inspection when a metallic speculum is in use is the open end, for cervical examination, and the vaginal wall areas between the blades.

In an attempt to eliminate some of the problems mentioned above, plastic specula have been developed. Plastic specula, which are formed from plastic or another lightweight and inexpensive material, are often designed with a double-hinge. Although these double-hinge designs satisfactorily support the vertical stresses placed on the speculum, current designs allow for significant movement when exposed to lateral forces. Such lateral forces are common when vaginal muscles become tense during procedures which do not require anesthesia, and the resulting lateral movement is objectional to the physician because it can result in speculum movement inside the vagina, or in the worst case speculum collapse.

Sufficient lighting of the subject area for examination is another area of difficulty, since typical specula are not equipped with illumination devices. Light must be directed from another source, often a gooseneck lamp that can partially obstruct the view into the vagina. Head-mounted lights have been used as a partial solution to this problem, but such head-mounted lights are uncomfortable for the operator and cumbersome due to the light cord. Lights built into the handle of existing specula generally project into a light pipe which follows up the center of the speculum. Since this light and light pipe assembly occupy the center of the handle the speculum hinge mechanism must be offset to one side. However, such offsetting from the center of the speculum has the undesirable effect of increasing lateral movement resulting from stress.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, at least one exemplary embodiment may provide a speculum. The speculum according to this embodiment may comprise an upper member, a lower member, and a linear support member. The upper member comprises an upper blade which has a distal end and a proximal end. The lower member comprises a tower blade having a distal end and a proximal end and having a right side and a left side when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade, the lower blade comprising a support structure positioned at the proximal end of the tower blade and which extends vertically on one of the right side or the left side of the lower blade. The lower member further comprises a handle portion extending downwardly from the proximal end of the lower blade and defining a vertical track. The linear support member has a proximal end pivotally connected to the proximal end of the upper blade, a distal end, and an elongated body between the proximal end and the distal end of the linear support member. The elongated body of the linear support member slidably engages the vertical track of the handle portion. The linear support member is formed with a hidden slot which slidably receives the support structure of the lower blade.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method for dilating a vagina may be provided. The method according to this embodiment may comprise providing a disposable vaginal speculum. The disposable vaginal speculum comprises an upper member, a lower member, and a linear support member. The upper member comprises an upper blade which has a distal end and a proximal end. The lower member comprises a lower blade having a distal end and a proximal end and having a right side and a left side when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade, the lower blade comprising a support structure positioned at the proximal end of the lower blade and which extends vertically on one of the right side or the left side of the lower blade. The lower member further comprises a handle portion extending downwardly from the proximal end of the lower blade and defining a vertical track. The linear support member has a proximal end pivotally connected to the proximal end of the upper blade, a distal end, and an elongated body between the proximal end and the distal end of the linear support member. The elongated body of the linear support member slidably engages the vertical track of the handle portion. The linear support member is formed with a hidden slot which slidably receives the support structure of the lower blade. The method for dilating a vagina according to this embodiment may further comprise inserting the upper blade and the lower blade of the speculum into an opening of the vagina, and creating a working space between the upper blade and the lower blade, thus dilating the vagina.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The presently disclosed embodiments will be further explained with reference to the attached drawings, wherein like structures are referred to by like numerals throughout the several views. The drawings shown are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the presently disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B show an embodiment of a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure. FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the vaginal speculum. FIG. 1B is a rear view of the vaginal speculum.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an upper member of the vaginal speculum of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an interior side of the upper member of the vaginal speculum of FIG. 2. The upper member includes an upper blade, a supporting structure, and an operating mechanism.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are perspective views of a lower member of the vaginal speculum of FIG. 1A. FIG. 4A is a rear perspective view of the lower member. FIG. 4B is a front perspective view of the lower member.

FIG. 5 is a close-up plan view of the lower member of the vaginal speculum of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. The lower member includes a lower blade and a track for engaging a linear support member.

FIG. 6 is a close-up perspective view of the track of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a linear support member of the vaginal speculum of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B.

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B show the upper member of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B secured to the linear support member of FIG. 7. FIG. 8A is a side view of the upper member secured to the linear support member. FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the upper member secured to the linear support member.

FIG. 9 is a perspective rear view of the linear support member of FIG. 7 positioned within the track of the lower member of FIG. 6.

FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B and FIG. 10C show an embodiment of a light source for use with the vaginal speculum of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the light source showing some of the outer and the inner components. FIG. 10B is a back view of the light source showing inner components. FIG. 10C is a side view of the light source showing some of the outer components.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a light guide and smoke evacuation channel for use with the vaginal speculum of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B having the light source of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective view of the lower member of the vaginal speculum of FIG. 1 having the light source of FIG. 10A.

While the above-identified drawings set forth presently disclosed embodiments, other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the discussion. This disclosure presents illustrative embodiments by way of representation and not limitation. Numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art which fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of the presently disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Vaginal speculums having lateral stabilized support and operating mechanisms are disclosed herein. The disclosed vaginal speculums are fabricated from plastic materials, and are designed to be for single-use and are fully disposable. Although the vaginal speculums disclosed herein are intended to be used by gynecologists, it is understood that the vaginal speculums may also be used for example, by primary care physicians, geriatricians, urologists and nurse practitioners.

As used herein, the term “cross-contamination” refers to the passing of bacteria or viruses indirectly from one patient to another through the use of improper sterilization procedures, unclean instruments, or recycling of products.

As used herein, the term “disposable” refers to a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure designed for short-term convenience, and intended for single-use. The disposable vaginal speculum therefore does not need to be sterilized after use, which reduces the cost of maintaining the vaginal speculum, and minimizes the risk of cross-contamination.

As used herein, the term “female internal genital organs” refers to the vulva, vagina and cervix.

As used herein, the term “gynecological examination” or “surgical procedure” refers to a medical procedure performed on a female patient to visualize, inspect, and/or remove a portion of the female internal genital organs. Common gynecological procedures and surgeries include, but are not limited to, colposcopy, cervical cryosurgery, loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) procedure, hysteroscopy, dilation and curettage (D&C), cervical biopsy, transcervical chorionic villus sampling, endometrial ablation, endometrial biopsy, vaginal hysterectomy and PAP test.

The vaginal speculums disclosed herein can be used during various medical procedures, and more particularly are used for unecological procedures either in an office or a hospital setting.

As used herein, the term “elevational movement” refers to the vertical up-and-down movement of an upper blade relative to a lower blade of a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term “linear” refers to a straight line of material, for example, a straight line of plastic material. A linear support member refers to a support member of the present disclosure that is made from a straight line of plastic material, having no curves or angles.

As used herein, the term “angulational movement” refers to the angular up-and-down movement of an upper blade relative to a lower blade of a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term “lateral movement” refers to the sideways back and forth movement of an upper blade relative to a lower blade of a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term “open state” refers to the positioning of an upper blade and a lower blade of a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure at a spaced-apart distance. The open state may be accomplished by elevating a support member that connects the upper blade and the lower blade together, by angularly moving the upper blade relative to the lower blade, or by a combination of both.

As used herein, the term “working space” refers to a space created between an upper blade and a lower blade of a speculum of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the working space is created for viewing, examining, and performing surgical procedures on female internal genital organs.

As used herein, the term “structural integrity” refers to a feature provided by a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure prior to, during, and after use. An upper blade and a lower blade of the speculum are designed to withstand applied loads and transfer these applied loads to various other components of the speculum, while maintaining the structural integrity of the speculum.

As used herein, the term “fulcrum” refers to a support structure created by engaging a support member and a support structure of a vaginal speculum of the present disclosure. The created fulcrum results in the ability for an upper blade of the vaginal speculum to angularly move with relation to a lower blade of the vaginal speculum.

As shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, a disposable vaginal speculum 100 of the present disclosure includes an upper member 120, a linear support member 150, and a lower member 130 having a built-in light source 160. The linear support member 150 is engaged to both the upper member 120 and the lower member 130, as will be described in detail below. Unlike metallic speculums, which are not designed for single-use but instead are meant to be re-used many times with sterilization occurring between each use, the entire speculum 100 of the presently disclosed embodiments is fabricated from one or more plastics or plastic composites, sterilized when manufactured or packaged, and sufficiently inexpensive to be discarded after only one use. Sterilization of reusable specula can be costly and time-consuming. More significantly, if sterilization is not done properly, blood borne pathogens or other harmful biological agents from one patient can survive the sterilization process and be transmitted to another patient. Because the entire speculum 100 of the presently disclosed embodiments is disposable, there is no need to sterilize the speculum 100 after each use, which greatly reduces the time and cost associated with such sterilization procedures and prevents cross-contamination. Exemplary plastic materials which may be used to construct the various components of the speculum 100 include, but are not limited to, polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, polyamide, polystyrene, and any composite of more than one of these plastics. In an embodiment, the upper member 120 and the lower member 130 are fabricated from plastic materials that are substantially rigid and capable of transmitting light. For example, the upper member 120 and the lower member 130 may be molded from a colorless transparent plastic material such as acrylic plastic or the like. Acrylic plastic is relatively rigid, can be injection molded or extruded, and has excellent light conductive properties most suitable for use with the speculum 100 of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the linear support member 150 is fabricated from a different plastic material than the upper member 120 and the lower member 130. The linear support member 150 is fabricated from a rigid, sturdy, plastic material that can handle various load patterns, as will be described in detail below. In an embodiment, the upper member 120 and the lower member 130 are fabricated from a polycarbonate material. In an embodiment, the linear support member 150 is fabricated from a polyester material. In an embodiment, the linear support member 150 is fabricated from a polyamide material, for example, nylon.

As best illustrated in FIG. 2, the disposable speculum 100 comprises an upper member 120 having an upper blade 122 that terminates in a hinge assembly 125. The hinge assembly 125 receives and transfers loads placed on the upper member 120 and the lower member 130 to various components of the speculum 100, as will be described in detail below. The hinge assembly 125 includes an operating mechanism 127 which extends out from the hinge assembly 125. As shown in the embodiments depicted in the figures, the operating mechanism 127 is located on a left-side of the upper blade 122. In another embodiment, the operating mechanism 127 may be located on a right-side of the upper blade 122. The unique design and low profile of the hinge assembly 125 enable a user of the speculum 100 to have a large unobstructed view of a patient during a gynecological procedure. In an embodiment, the operating mechanism 127 extends out and down from the upper blade 122 at an angle. Also, a working space 115 created when the speculum 100 is in an open state (see FIG. 1B, the speculum 100 is not shown entirely in the open state in the figures) provides exceptional instrument maneuverability to the user of the speculum 100. The speculums known in the art often provide a limited working space with limited visibility due to a poorly designed hinge assembly.

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the hinge assembly 125 comprises a pair of parallel support beams 129 spaced a distance apart. These parallel support beams 129 will interact with the support member 150 to prevent hinge slippage when a lateral force is present. The operating mechanism 127 interacts with an angulation arm 157 on the support member 150 which allows a user of the speculum 100 to move the upper blade 122 at various angles when pressure is applied to the operating mechanism 127 during use of the speculum 100. The operating mechanism 127 is formed with an opening 126 for which the angulation arm 157 of the linear support member 150 moves through and locks with. The upper blade 122 has a thickness, a width and a curve, which prevents failure of the upper blade 122 with the application of pressure or stress, for example during a gynecological procedure. In an embodiment, the upper blade 122 has a rounded distal end.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B show the lower member 130 of the speculum 100. The lower member 130 includes a lower blade 132 and a handle portion 134. The handle portion 134 includes a vertical track 137 for elevational movement of the linear support member 150, and a cavity 139 for positioning of the built-in light source 160 (see FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B). In an embodiment, the track 137 is a carved-out space positioned at a single side of the handle portion 134. On an outer surface of the handle 134 at a distal end of the track 137, there are stop tabs 131. These stop tabs 131 encounter a locking tooth 159 on an elevation leg 155 of the linear support member 150 (see FIG. 7) and maintain the speculum 100 in an open state at various, user-selected distances. Because the light source cavity 139 is typically placed in the center of handle 134, the track 137 for support member 150 is ideally placed either to the left or the right of the light source cavity 139. Such placement of the support track 137 will cause translation of the normal vertical stress placed upon top member 120 into a lateral force. A typical speculum will suffer lateral movement of the top blade as a result. This lateral movement interferes with many physician procedures, can cause patient discomfort, and may lead to a structural failure of the speculum. To eliminate this lateral movement a novel support structure 136 has been added so as to protrude slightly into the viewing area 115. This support structure 136 interacts with a hidden slot 191 in support member 150 (see FIG. 7) to substantially eliminate lateral movement. The support structure 136 is shown on the right side of the lower member 130. In an embodiment, the support structure 136 and the hidden slot 191 are located on the right side of the speculum 100. In another embodiment, the support structure 136 and the hidden slot 191 are located on both sides of speculum 100.

As shown in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4B, the handle 134 has at least one shaped surface so that a user of the speculum 100 may easily grasp the handle 134. The lower blade 132 has a thickness, a width, and a curve which prevents failure of the blade 132 with the application of pressure or stress. In an embodiment, the lower blade 132 has a rounded distal end.

FIG. 5 shows a close-up plan view showing an interior surface 133 of the lower blade 132. The track 137 has a “T-shape,” with a long vertical section represented by 136 a and a shorter horizontal section represented by 136 b for accepting the linear support member 150. FIG. 6 shows a close-up perspective view of the track 137 in which the support member 150 rides in.

FIG. 7 in conjunction with FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B and FIG. 9, show various views of the linear support member ISO of the vaginal speculum 100. The linear support member 150 has a proximal end 152, a distal end 156 and an elongated body 154 having a “T-shape.” The elongated body 154 rides within the track 137. Additionally, the support structure 136 rides within the hidden slot 191 to provide additional lateral support. Holes 153 of the linear support member 150 attach with the hinge assembly 125 of the upper member 120. Key holes 110 interact with the parallel support beams 129 of the hinge assembly 125 to prevent slippage and subsequent failure of the hinge during lateral stresses. The angulation arm 157 and the elevation leg 155 both protrude from a lip 158 of the elongated body 154. The angulation arm 157 passes through the opening 126 of the operating mechanism 1.27 of the hinge assembly 125 of the upper member 120 and is held in place with locking teeth on the angulation arm 157. The locking tooth 159 of the elevation leg 155 locks with the stop tabs 131 on the outer surface of the handle 134.

During a gynecological examination or surgical procedure, it is sometimes desirable to illuminate the working area so that a medical professional performing the procedure can properly view the working area. Typical specula are not equipped with illumination devices, and newer speculums that contain light sources generally generate unwanted heat, consume significant power, are tethered to a power source, and project light in unwanted directions. The power consumed requires wires to an external power supply which is cumbersome for a medical practitioner, creates a potential hazard to a patient, and is a source of cross-contamination, as the light source is not easily sterilized between procedures. The unwanted directionality of light will not only illuminate the practitioners working space, but also will illuminate the practitioner and impair the practitioner's vision.

Attempts to overcome the above shortcomings have been problematic themselves. One known speculum includes a fiber bundle built into the speculum and an external light source. While this overcomes the heat generation and light directionality problem, the problem for cross-contamination still exists. Another known speculum discloses a light bulb built into the speculum handle with a reflector also built into the handle. While this overcomes the problem of light directionality, problems related to cross-contamination and heat generation still exist. Other speculums disclose a battery operated halogen light source built into the handle. This solves the cross-contamination problem, but does not solve the light directionality problem and heat problem.

FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, and FIG. 10C, show an embodiment of the built-in light source 160 that resides within the handle 134 of the disposable, plastic speculum 100. An outer housing 163 protects internal batteries 166, a light emitting diode (LED) 164, and internal components of a tab switch 165, which is removed to illuminate the LED 164 when illumination is desired. The LED 164 may produce any desired level of intensity. For example, a resistance tab on the built-in light source 160 may be used to control the intensity of light that the LED 164 can emit. The LED 164 has a high power efficiency and consumes relatively little electrical power with a long lifespan. The LED 164 solves the heat problem because the power efficiency of an LED is greatly superior to prior incandescent or laser solutions. The light output from the LED 164 is highly directional, emitting light only within about a twenty-degree path. This narrow light path ensures that light is only projected onto the working area, and not directly into the practitioner's eyes. The LED 164 is energy-efficient and can be powered by a single lightweight battery 166 or a number of batteries 166. Because the light source 160 is built into the handle 134 of the disposable speculum 100, the problem of cross-contamination is eliminated. The built-in light source 160 also eliminates cumbersome and potentially dangerous wires extending from the speculum 100 to an external power supply.

In an embodiment, the LED light source 164 is a white LED.

In an embodiment, single or multiple wavelength LED sources can be substituted to choose a light wavelength that is uniquely suited to materials, chemicals, tissue, or tools used in current or future gynecological procedures such that these materials, chemicals, tissue or tools will distinctly illuminate when such wavelengths are projected, thus aiding in the practitioner's ability to view and perform a procedure, aiding in material property changes (such as epoxy hardening or activating some other specific material property), altering the state of tissue life, or serving as a contamination neutralizing agent.

In an embodiment, the LED light source 164 is a single wavelength light emitting diode.

In an embodiment, the LED light source 164 is a multiple wavelength light emitting diode.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a light guide 138 having a proximal end 138 a and a distal end 138 b. The light guide 1.38 runs from a distal end of the cavity 139 to a distal end of the lower blade 132 on the interior surface 133 of the lower blade 132 (see FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B). The proximal end 138 a of the light guide 1.38 will transfer light coming from the light source 160 through the light guide 138 and out of the distal end 138 b. The light guide 138 is contoured to ride on the interior surface 133 of the lower blade 132. The proximal end 138 a of the light guide 138 may include a lens that couples with the light source 160 contained in the cavity 139 of the handle 134.

In certain gynecological procedures, it is desirable to remove abnormal cells from the internal and external portions of the cervix. Also, certain gynecological procedures use instruments that produce smoke, which makes it difficult for a medical professional to see a working space during the procedure. Therefore, the use of an external vacuum source during gynecological procedures is common. These external vacuum sources are cumbersome, difficult to manipulate during the procedure, and are a source of cross-contamination, since the vacuum is re-used for many patients.

Existing specula containing both a light guide and a smoke evacuation channel have typically built the light guide into the lower blade thereof and the smoke evacuation channel into the upper blade thereof. This arrangement significantly detracts from the working space between the two blades that is needed to perform vaginal or uterine procedures. Additionally, an external suction tube must be connected to the upper blade of these existing specula which further complicates and obstructs the working area for the physician.

FIG. 11 in conjunction with FIG. 4A and FIG. 12 shows the lower member 130 of the speculum 100 having a smoke vacuum channel 138 c and the light guide 138 merged together and positioned within a sunken relief 135 of the lower member 130 to create a compact structure. The combined smoke channel light guide consists of the light guide 138 with the channel 138 c for smoke evacuation cut into the side of the light guide 138 that comes in contact with the lower blade 132. A tunnel formed by the channel 138 c is used as a smoke channel. The resulting compact structure created by merging the smoke vacuum channel 138 c and the light guide 138 allows for the working space of the speculum 100 to be maximized. Additionally, an external suction tube may be connected to the handle 134 of the speculum 100 at an opening 169 instead of at the upper blade 122 of the speculum 100. Connection of the external suction tube to the lower handle 134 maintains a clear and unobstructed access to the vaginal area for the physician. Smoke is drawn from the distal end 138 b of the light guide 138 through the channel 138 c that extends under the light guide 138 and out the bottom of the speculum handle 134 where external suction tubing can be attached.

In an embodiment, debris is drawn from the distal end 138 b of the light guide 138 through the channel 138 c that extends under the light guide 138 and out the bottom of the speculum handle 134 where external suction tubing can be attached.

In an embodiment, bodily fluids are drawn from the distal end 138 b of the light guide 138 through the channel 138 c that extends under the light guide and out the bottom of the speculum handle 134 where external suction tubing can be attached.

The ability of the speculum 100 of the present disclosure to withstand applied loads is a result of a combination of components of the speculum 100, including, but not limited to, the geometry of the hinge assembly 125, a support beam 128, the parallel support beams 129, the geometry of the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132, the lateral support structure 136 and the hidden slot 191, and the interdependent loading between the various components. In an embodiment, during use, pressure exerted on the operating mechanism 127 is transferred to the hinge assembly 125, the mechanical holes 153, and down the elongated body 154 of the linear support member 150. As shown clearly in FIG. 3 and FIG. 8, the operating mechanism 127 is an extension of the hinge assembly 125, extending outwards and downwards at an angle. This extension design of the operating mechanism 127 imparts asymmetrical loads on the plastic linear support member 150 and will create lateral movement on the distal end of the upper blade 122. To prevent lateral movement, the novel features of the lateral support structure 136 and the hidden slot 191 have been added. For example, the operating mechanism 127 is capable of absorbing some of the initial load that a user imparts on the speculum 100, such that the load is felt asymmetrically at the two support holes 153 of linear support member 150. These asymmetric loads placed on the linear support member 150 are directed in both a downward and forward direction. The asymmetrical forward loads in turn result in a lateral force on the elongated body 156 of the linear support member 150. In a typical speculum this lateral force will cause twisting of the elongated body of the linear support member thereof, and may cause unwanted movement of the speculum blades or hinge failure. In this embodiment, the lateral support structure 136 and the hidden slot 191 absorb the asymmetrical forward forces and in turn substantially eliminate twisting of the elongated body 156 of the linear support member 150. This reduction in twisting load at the linear support member 150 reduces the tendency of the linear support member 150 to twist and permits the use of a plastic linear support member 150.

During use of the speculum 100, for example during a gynecological procedure, the speculum 100 is inserted into a patient's vagina. The vaginal walls in turn exert a pressure, or load, on the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 of the speculum 100. The upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 are capable of transferring this load to the support member 150 and the operating mechanism 127 because of the unique design of the lateral support structure 136 of the lower member 130 of the speculum 100. The support structure 136 is capable of supporting the lateral load and distributes the vertical load equally down both the linear support member 150 and the operating mechanism 127. This results in a great deal of holding power in a relatively small area without lateral top blade movement or top blade hinge failure.

The upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 have a curved shape which increases the stiffness and strength of the blades. The stiffness imparted on the curved blades enables the blades to support the applied load along an entire length of the blades, without the need for additional strengthening structures within the blades. The proximal end 152 of the linear support member 150 and the parallel hidden slot 191 and track 137 help prevent failure of the speculum 100 due to asymmetric loading on the blades that would cause the speculum 100 to twist relative to the handle's 134 axis. The design of the speculum 100 prevents twisting.

To operate the speculum 100 of the present disclosure during a gynecological procedure, the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 are inserted into a vagina of a patient in a closed position. Closed position can refer to complete closure, where the upper blade 122 engages the lower blade 132, or can refer to partial closure, where the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 are partially separated. Thereupon, the linear support member 150 is moved upwardly by pressing on the elevation leg 155 until a desired degree of opening has been attained. The locking tooth 159 of the elevation leg 155 locks with the stop tabs 131 on the outer surface of the handle 134. In an embodiment, when the desired degree of opening has been attained, the operating arm 127 of the operating mechanism 125 is pressed spreading the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 apart at an angle. The locking teeth on the angulation arm 157 lock at the opening 126 of the operating mechanism 125, resulting in the speculum 100 being held in the open position. The light source 160 may be turned on to illuminate a surgical or examination site. The pull tab 165 of the light source 160 is removed, resulting in the LED 164 illuminating. At the end of the procedure, the pull tab 165 may be inserted again to turn the LED 16 off. It is to be understood that a speculum 100 of the present disclosure may be fabricated in various sizes, such that the proper sized speculum 100 can be used for each patient. The speculum 100 may also be fabricated from various strength plastic materials based on the desired use of the speculum 100, as long as the structural integrity of the speculum 100 remains. For example, for a routine PAP test, a lower strength speculum 100 may be used as compared to a speculum 100 for use during vaginal hysterectomy.

In an embodiment, a speculum 100 is provided that includes an adjustable upper blade 122 and an adjustable lower blade 132 capable of expanding during use of the speculum 100. Means for providing adjustable blades include, but are not limited to, the use of laterally adjusting blades that expand the width of the blades and the use of longitudinally adjustable blades that expand the length of the blades. The adjustable blades can be withdrawn partially or completely.

In an embodiment, a speculum 100 is provided that includes heating means for warming the upper blade 122 or the lower blade 132. The extra warmth provided by the heating means enhances patient comfort and helps to relax the vaginal area. Means for heating the blades include, but are not limited to, the use of heating coils within a hollowed out space of the blades, the use of powdered chemicals within a hollowed out space of the blades that are able to oxidize when exposed to air. In an embodiment, a speculum 100 includes heating coils on the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132 for bringing the temperature of the blades to body temperature. In an embodiment, the heating coils can be powered by the batteries 166 used in the built-in light source 160. In an embodiment, the heating coils can be powered by a different battery.

In an embodiment, a speculum 100 is provided that includes a distally mounted camera chip for real-time data capture and/or viewing of a medical procedure. The camera chip can store and/or capture data, and communicate with computer software to analyze the data. Data captured on the camera chip can be analyzed for cellular and visual abnormalities of the vulva, vagina and cervix.

In an embodiment, a speculum 100 is provided that includes a pressure gauge, so that the pressure being applied from the speculum 100 to the vagina, or from the vagina to the speculum 100, can be monitored, as well as the tightness of the vaginal canal. The pressure gauge may be similar to a strain gauge and may be built into the speculum 100, for example, at the hinge assembly 125.

In an embodiment, a speculum 100 is provided that includes a pH test strip or a pH meter, for the fast and accurate determination of the acidity level of the vaginal canal being examined. The pH strip or pH meter would be exposed to vaginal secretions to access the pH at any point in a gynecological or surgical procedure.

In an embodiment, a speculum 100 is provided that includes means for lubricating either or both of the upper blade 122 and the lower blade 132. The lubricated blades make it easy for the speculum 100 to be inserted into a vaginal cavity of a patient, while providing a moist work environment during a gynecological or surgical procedure.

In an embodiment, a body of the upper blade 122 and/or the lower blade 132 has a hollowed-out space for passage of a lubricating jelly, as well as holes at a surface for release of the lubricating jelly.

In an embodiment, the speculum 100 may come pre-packaged with an amount of lubricating jelly within the hollowed-out space of the blade. The lubricating jelly is released through the holes present at the blades surface, for example, by pushing a button on the handle 134. In an embodiment, the speculum 100 may include a port that can attach to a luer-lock syringe having the lubricating jelly, for passage of the lubricating jelly into the blades.

A method for dilating a vagina includes providing a disposable vaginal speculum. The speculum has an upper member containing an upper blade, a lower member containing a lower blade and including one or more lateral support beams that extend downward from an interior side of the lower blade, and a linear support member that connects the upper member having the upper blade to the lower member containing the lower blade, such that the linear support member engages the lateral support beam or beams and engages a rotational operating mechanism extending off the upper blade and a linear operating mechanism extending from the lower member. The linear support member is vertically moveable within a track positioned at a single side of a handle portion of the lower member. The method for dilating a vagina further includes inserting the upper blade and the lower blade of the speculum into an opening of the vagina, and creating a working space between the upper blade and the lower blade, thus dilating the vagina.

All patents, patent applications, and published references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. It will be appreciated that several of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A speculum comprising: an upper member comprising an upper blade which has a distal end and a proximal end; a lower member comprising: a lower blade having a distal end and a proximal end and having a right side and a left side when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade, the lower blade comprising a first support structure positioned on a first side of the right and left sides of the proximal end of the lower blade, and a handle portion connected to the proximal end of the lower blade and defining a vertical track on a second side of the right and left sides of the proximal end of said lower blade, said second side being opposite said first side, such that the lower blade and the handle portion are each asymmetrical when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade; and a linear support member having a proximal end pivotally connected to the proximal end of the upper blade, a distal end, and an elongated body between the proximal end and the distal end of the linear support member, the linear support member comprising a first slot disposed on said first side thereon so as to correspond to the first support structure, wherein the first slot comprises a base and two opposite sidewalls, a lateral direction across the proximal end and the distal end of the lower blade substantially traverses the opposite sidewalls, and the first support structure rides within the first slot and is restrained between the opposite sidewalls of the first slot, wherein the elongated body of the linear support member slidably engages the vertical track of the handle portion.
 2. A speculum comprising: an upper member comprising an upper blade which has a distal end and a proximal end; a lower member comprising: a lower blade having a distal end and a proximal end and having a right side and a left side when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade, the lower blade comprising a first support structure positioned on a first side of the right and left sides of the proximal end of the lower blade, and a handle portion connected to the proximal end of the lower blade and defining a vertical track on a second side of the right and left sides of the proximal end of said lower blade, said second side being opposite said first side, such that the lower blade and the handle portion are each asymmetrical when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade; a linear support member having a proximal end pivotally connected to the proximal end of the upper blade, a distal end, and an elongated body between the proximal end and the distal end of the linear support member, the linear support member comprising a first slot disposed on said first side thereon so as to correspond to the first support structure, wherein the first slot comprises a base and two opposite sidewalls, a lateral direction across the proximal end and the distal end of the lower blade substantially traverses the opposite sidewalls, and the first support structure rides within the first slot and is restrained between the opposite sidewalls of the first slot, wherein the elongated body of the linear support member slidably engages the vertical track of the handle portion; a light source; and a light guide disposed on the lower member for transferring light from the light source to a working space between the upper blade and the lower blade, wherein the light guide has a groove therein, and the groove has an open side closed by the lower member to form a smoke vacuum channel.
 3. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the first side is the right side.
 4. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the upper member further comprises a hinge assembly positioned at the proximal end of the upper blade, the hinge assembly comprising a pair of support beams protruding laterally on opposite sides of the upper blade, and wherein the proximal end of the linear support member is formed with a pair of holes which pivotally and respectively receive the support beams of the hinge assembly.
 5. The speculum of claim 4, wherein the hinge assembly of the upper member further comprises an operating mechanism connected to the upper blade of the upper member.
 6. The speculum of claim 5, wherein the linear support member comprises an angulation arm which has locking teeth, and wherein the operating mechanism of the hinge assembly is formed with an opening, the angulation arm extending into the opening of the operating mechanism and the locking teeth of the angulation arm releasably engaging a portion of the operating mechanism defining the opening to thereby secure the operating mechanism to the angulation arm.
 7. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the vertical track defined in the handle portion of the lower member and the elongated body of the linear support member are T-shaped.
 8. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the handle portion of the lower member is formed with a plurality of stop tabs arranged from a distal end of the vertical track in an arrangement direction away from the vertical track, and the linear support member comprises a locking tooth releasably engaging one of the plurality of stop tabs of the handle portion to lock the linear support member at a vertical position.
 9. The speculum of claim 8, wherein the linear support member further comprises an elevation leg connected to the distal end of the linear support member in a manner spaced apart from the elongated body, the elevation leg being pressed by a user to move the linear support member so that the locking tooth of the linear support member releasably engages another one of the plurality of stop tabs of the handle portion.
 10. The speculum of claim 9, wherein the elevation leg is located on said second side.
 11. The speculum of claim 2, wherein each of the upper member, the lower member, and the linear support member is fabricated from a plastic material.
 12. The speculum of claim 11, wherein the plastic material is selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, polyamide, polystyrene, and a composite thereof.
 13. The speculum of claim 11, wherein the linear support member is fabricated from a different plastic material than the upper member and the lower member.
 14. The speculum of claim 13, wherein the linear support member is fabricated from a polyester material or a polyamide material, and each of the upper member and the lower member is fabricated from a polycarbonate material.
 15. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the handle portion of the lower member is formed with a cavity, and the light source is disposed in the cavity.
 16. The speculum of claim 15, wherein the cavity is formed approximately in a center of the handle portion and the vertical track is positioned to the left or right of the cavity when viewed from the proximal end of the lower blade.
 17. The speculum of claim 15, wherein the light source comprises at least one or more batteries, a light emitting diode, and a tab switch which is removed by a user so that the one or more batteries power the light emitting diode to illuminate.
 18. The speculum of claim 17, wherein the light guide runs from a distal end of the cavity to the distal end of the lower blade on an interior surface of the lower blade.
 19. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the lower member is formed with a sunken relief, and the light guide is positioned within the sunken relief.
 20. The speculum of claim 2, wherein the first side is the left side. 